And if you make it east, You have to see this. Its the only 3' narrow gauge railroad still in operation east of the Mississippi. Its shop complex is well over 100 years old and it is complete. Some of the tools are used now but all are in great condition and usable.http://www.ebtrr.com/

Illinois Railway Museum is a very great place for visit. More locally, I love the Kankakee Model Railroad Museum. They have three pieces of real equipment; a Union Pacific Caboose, fully restored ex-ATSF-ex-Amtrak coach. Finally, a restored Trolley. Not to mention they have three layouts, one in HO, one in Three-Rail O, and finally, one in N scale.